Acute bronchitis, also sometimes referred to as a chest cold, is caused by swelling of the airways in the lungs, called the bronchial tubes, which causes the production of mucus. This is what causes the coughing we associate with the ailment. Chronic bronchitis is more serious and refers to bronchitis that either doesn’t go away or keeps returning. 

What Causes Bronchitis?

Viruses such as those that cause the cold and the flu most commonly trigger bronchitis, although in rare cases, it can also be caused by bacteria. In both cases, as your body fights the germs, the bronchial tubes’ inflammation induces swelling and mucus production. This decreases the amount of space in your airways and makes breathing harder.

In the case of chronic bronchitis, the causes are usually air pollution or breathing in chemical fumes or dust over time. Your risk for chronic bronchitis is also higher if you are a smoker or are exposed to secondhand smoke for long periods of time. 

Bronchitis Symptoms

The symptoms of acute bronchitis usually don’t last more than three weeks and tend to get better over time, so long as you are looking after yourself. 

 Bronchitis symptoms include:

• Coughing with or without mucus
• Soreness in the chest
• Feeling tired (fatigue)
• Mild headache
• Mild body aches
• Sore throat

Bronchitis Treatment and Diagnosis

Your doctor can tell you if you have bronchitis by conducting a physical exam and asking about your symptoms. In some cases, they may want to run a few tests, such as checking the oxygen levels in your blood, performing a chest X-ray, or testing your mucus to determine if bacteria caused your illness.

In most cases, antibiotics are not recommended in bronchitis treatment, as viruses often cause the illness. While there aren’t necessarily any cures for bronchitis, there are ways to make yourself feel better and help your body recover. 

Here are some ways to do this:

• Rest as much as you can.
• Drink lots of water.
• Use a humidifier or vaporizer.
• Use saline nasal spray or nose drops to relieve a stuffy nose.
• Breathe in steam from a bowl of hot water or a shower.
• Cough lozenges for temporary relief.
• Use honey to relieve your cough. 

You can also ask your pharmacist about over-the-counter medications that help reduce inflammation, break down mucus, and relieve some of your discomfort. 

When to See a Doctor

You should seek urgent medical treatment if you experience any of the following:

• If your cough brings up blood or thick, dark mucus. 
• If your cough prevents you from sleeping. 
• If your cough causes chest pain. 
• If your cough has a barking sound and prevents you from speaking easily. 
• If you experience unintended weight loss. 
• If you have a foul-tasting fluid in your mouth.
• If you have a fever over 100.4.
• If you experience wheezing or shortness of breath.